The most beautiful villages of Aveyron

All ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, these hilltop villages, Templar villages, riverside villages … are all exceptional. Here is our selection of 10 Aveyron villages not to be missed.

La Couvertoirade

In the Causses du Larzac, the Templar city of La Couvertoirade tells us 1000 years of history. From the top of its ramparts or from the bottom of its lavogne (a depression dug by Man to accumulate rainwater for livestock), its heritage reveals the secrets of this tumultuous past.

Classified as a World Heritage Site, it is a must-see in the region.

On the way to the next stop, don't miss another magnificent Templar village: La Cavalerie.

Peyre

The ancient village of Peyre is located in the commune of Comprégnac. Built along the cliff face, as if sculpted from within, the village comprises stone houses and troglodytic monuments. Perched high above the city, it offers breathtaking views of the Milhau viaduct and the waters of the Tarn River.

For another view of the viaduct, below the village, at CanoEscapade you can rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards…

Saint Eulalie d'Olt

Between the gorges and valleys of Aveyron, this charming medieval town on the banks of the Lot has a magnificent architectural heritage from all periods: an 11th century church, a 15th century castle, a Renaissance hotel, a mill… It is also a city of the arts, since the installation of contemporary artists in the village.

An unusual event takes place every year on All Saints' Day: an auction to benefit the parish, with the first prize being a live chicken!

Saint-Côme-d'Olt

Ramparts, fortified gates, a castle, and a manor house… Saint-Côme-d'Olt boasts a distinctly medieval heritage, though its origins are Gallo-Roman. It is also a stop on the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and located at the crossroads of several major French heritage sites. For more information, visit the tourist office website.

Estaing

Estains and its narrow streets already offer a very pleasant stroll. But a visit to its Saint-Fleuret-d'Estaing church and its castle is particularly noteworthy. The Maison de la Vigne (House of the Vine) will teach you all about the vine and its cultivation.

Every year in July, a historical and religious costumed procession takes place in the village.

To organize your visit, you will find all the practical information on the tourist office website.

Conques

Conques holds a true treasure, one of only five collections of medieval goldsmithing in Europe and the only one in France. But that's not all… Its Sainte-Foy Abbey also boasts a magnificent tympanum and exceptional contemporary stained-glass windows. To make sure you don't miss anything, a guided tour is offered by the tourist office.

Belcastel

Belcastel boasts an exceptional medieval heritage, including its port, castle, church, the ruins of its 5th-century fort, and its forge house. Discovery trails are organized by the town hall.

Sauveterre-de-Rouergue

In the heart of the Aveyron region, the bastide town of Sauveterre-de-Rouergue is laid out on a rectangular plan, around a central square, and its half-timbered houses have been perfectly restored. It was the last English stronghold to fall in Rouergue! It's a lively town with many events taking place. For details on tours and the events calendar, please visit the town hall website.

Najac

This unusual hilltop village clings to the cliffside along a single street. Its royal fortress alone is worth the visit. But you'll also find a beautiful church, a chapel, a medieval gate, old houses… For visiting details, contact the tourist office.

Fancy exploring the surrounding area on horseback ? Here are some nearby equestrian centers. A nature center is also available.

Brousse-le-Château

A village, a medieval castle, an oratory, and a Romanesque bridge … Its narrow streets are particularly pleasant to stroll through. Located in the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, this village offers numerous activities and attractions. To find out more, click here.

And that concludes our loop. Of course, many other villages are worth a visit, but the list would be too long…

Want to learn more about its geography, its history…? Become an expert on the Tarn Aveyron region …

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